Hair, the Musical
My friend and I recently met at one of our favorite restaurants for lunch. It was one of the first times I had been out au natural : without the wig, I mean. I fidgeted and squirmed in my seat, half paying attention to what she was saying. “What is wrong with you?” she finally asked. “Nothing,” I lied. “I can tell. What's up?” “I am self-conscious, I guess. I hate my hair.” She sighed, and matter-of-factly said, “Girlfriend, you can’t complain about something you prayed for.”
The Lessons Learned
It has been a week of doctor appointments for me as both my medical and gynecological oncologists have reviewed my scan results, performed a physical exam, and ordered some additional blood work. They are thrilled with my outcome, of course, offering congratulations and hugs. I wonder how often they get to celebrate with a patient since theirs can be a challenging, sometimes hopeless field. I am happy to be a reminder that what they do is powerful and important. We discuss f
Think Teal
For the third time this month I have answered a phone call soliciting for breast cancer research. The pink ribbons are out in the stores, decorating everything from coffee mugs to sweatshirts and bumper stickers. I look at the calendar. It is still September, Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, and I have yet to spot a commemorative teal token anywhere. The phone is silent when it comes to fund raising for the cause. I can’t help but wonder why there is so little focus on this i
And I Brought You a Casserole
The woman born in the South has forever been synonymous with the Southern belle—a soft gauzy stereotype that personifies the “moonlight and magnolias” legend of the region. It’s a silly romanticized caricature that originated in books and movies. Remember Scarlet O’Hara? But honestly, it’s nowhere close to describing the strong, richly diverse women who have thrived because of—and in some cases, despite of—where they were raised. I’m proud to be one of them. We think differen
